US6899538B2 - Identification type instrument assembly, identification type adapter, identification type tube, and medical apparatus using them - Google Patents

Abstract

An identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment. The instrument assembly is provided with identification signal output means for actively outputting unique self-identification signals prepared in advance under a predetermined procedure, and the connected instrument assembly can be specified in the main body by the identification signals outputted from the identification signal output means when the instrument assembly is connected to the main body.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to the main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment, an: identification type adapter and an identification type tube connecting an instrument and the main body.

2. Prior Art

In medical or dental care, there is a medical apparatus in which medical treatment is executed by instruments connected to its main body and for supplying electric, power, water and air, or by controlling plural instruments with independent driving sources. Such an instrument includes a medical cutting apparatus such as a motor handpiece, a turbine handpiece, a scaler, an apparatus using ultrasonic wave or light such as a photo polymerization apparatus, a measurement and observation apparatus such as a measuring device of root canal length and an intraoral camera in dental field.

Conventionally according to the dental apparatus, each such instruments have been connected to the main body via an exclusive tube and a driving circuit, a water circuit, and an air circuit required for the connected instrument and which are provided in the main body.

Whereas in such a method, as the kinds of instruments used in the medical apparatus are increased, the number of connections provided for the apparatus and the number of exclusive tubes in the main body are increased. On the other hand, the number of connections can't be increased immoderately because of restriction of the entire apparatus and it hasn't been preferable to increase the number of tubes because of space problems and entwining of each of the tubes.

However, as kinds of new instruments have been increased according to the development of new medical technology, it has become a big problem to be solved how to deal with the increase in the kinds of the instruments and several solutions have been proposed.

For example, an instrument shown inFIG. 17 has been proposed in JP-B-8-115.

Instruments101a-101dare used by detachably being fitted to acommon tube102 through ends103a-103cinserted detachably or directly. Connections between the ends103a-103cand theinstrument101d, and thetube102 are constructed asmulti connection104 so that plural instruments101a-101dcan be detachably exchanged and used for onecommon tube102.

Required connection terminals are provided forconnection parts104a-104dof the ends103a-103cand theinstrument101d. The connection terminals are located according to a predetermined arrangement, and anyconnection parts104a-104dare connected to the connection part104eof the tube so that air, water, and electric power required for each instrument101a-101dcan be received via thetube102 from the main body (not shown).

According to such construction, plural kinds of instruments101a-101dcan be detachably exchanged and used for onetube102 and the problem of the increase of the number of thetubes102 has been solved.

On the other hand in this method, the main body requires identification of which instrument is fitted to thetube102 to supply electric power suitable for the fitted instrument to drive the instrument. For this purpose, in this embodiment, resistances105a-105fhaving different resistance values are housed in the instruments101a-101dor in theends103b,103c, and when the instrument is fitted, electric power is supplied form the main body and the fitted instrument is specified by measuring the resistance values of the resistance105a-105f.

The instrument shown inFIG. 18 is proposed in JP-B-3-34345. FIG.18(a) shows an outer view of its using condition and FIG.18(b) shows a detailed view of its connection part.

The instruments201a-201care provided with exclusive tubes202a-202crespectively and these tubes202a-202care fitted to themain body210adetachably and exchangeably. The connection of the tubes202a-202cand the main body is constructed as amulti joint connection204.

The multijoint connection204 is the same as the multi joint type of theconnection parts104a-104din FIG.17. Thesame connection part204dof multi joint type is provided at four places of themain body210aand any tubes202a-202ccan be connected to eachconnection part204dand can be used by operating afoot controller210bprovided for themain body210a.

Also according to such construction, instruments more than the number of theconnection parts204dcan be detachably and exchangeably used for the limited numbers of theconnection parts204dof themain body210aso that the problem of space of the main body and increase of the number of tubes can be solved.

On the other hand, similarly in this case, mounted instruments are required to be specified. In this case,plural identification pins205aare provided for theconnection parts204a-204cof the tubes and correspondinglyidentification bushes205bfor inserting the identification pins205aare provided for theconnection parts204dof themain body210a.

Theidentification pins205aprovided for the tube are bridge connected in different manners corresponding to the kinds of the instruments and a logic element is connected between theidentification bushes205bof themain body210a. Therefore, plural logic elements are connected in different manners by connecting different instruments to theconnection parts204dof themain body210aand fitted instrument is specified by its output signals. JP-B-6-9577 proposes a medical apparatus in which instruments are detachably and exchangeably fitted to the medical apparatus by means of a multi joint connection as shown in. FIG.19.

Thedental apparatus300 is provided with amain body350 and atube310 introduced from the main body. A multijoint connection311 is provided for the tip end of thetube310 and several instruments301a-301e, such as a micro motor handpiece, an air turbine handpiece, and scaler, are designed to be detachably and exchangeably attached to theconnection part311.

Themain body350 has acontrol part330, an identification andcommand circuit340 and aswitch circuit341. Thecontrol part330 has an operationpower supply circuit320 for supplying electric power, awater supply circuit321 for supplying water, a chipair supply circuit322 for supplying cooling air, and a driveair supply circuit323 for supplying drive air to an air turbine handpiece and so on corresponding to the instrument. Required power, water, and air are supplied to the instruments301a-301efitted to thetube310 from these circuits320-323.

Apower source352 is connected to the operationpower supply circuit320, awater source353 is connected to thewater supply circuit321, and anair source354 is connected to the chipair supply circuit322 and the driveair supply circuit323.

Theswitch circuit341 switches the operationpower supply circuit320 and the identification andcommand circuit340 to be connected to anelectric line312 connected to theconnection part311 through thetube310. The identification andcommand circuit340 identifies which instrument is connected based on the difference of resistance and impedance of the instruments301a-301econnected to theconnection part311 by theelectric line312 and gives a selection command for the power, water, and air required for the connected instruments depending on the identification results to the circuits320-323.

Namely according to thedental apparatus300, the fitted instrument is specified by measuring its electric characteristic inherent to the instruments301a-301ewithout providing separate resistance or wiring for the instruments301a-301efor identification.

Awater line313 from thewater supply circuit321, achip air line314 from the chipair supply circuit322, and adrive air line315 from the driveair supply circuit323 are provided in thetube310 other than theelectric line312 and reach to theconnection part311. Sensor means316 for detecting attachment and detachment of the instrument is provided in theconnection part311 of thetube310.

Thedental apparatus300 is also provided with adrive control switch351 for supplying power, water, and air to the connected instruments301a-301eto be driven and the signals of theswitch351 are sent to thecontrol part330 and the identification andcommand circuit340.

According to thedental apparatus300, when any one of instruments is connected to theconnection part311 of thetube310, its connection is detected by the sensor means316, theswitch circuit341 is switched to the identification andcommand circuit340, and thecircuit340 identifies the connected instrument and stores its result.

Then, when thedrive control switch351 is operated, theswitch circuit341 is switched to the operationpower supply circuit320, a command is sent for each supply circuit320-323 based on the identification result of the instruments stored in the identification andcommand circuit340, and required power, water, air are supplied.

According to such construction, plural instruments301a-301ecan be attached detachably and exchangeably on onetube310 and correspondingly required power, water, and air can be supplied so that the same effect as FIG.17 andFIG. 18 can be achieved.

However inFIG. 17,FIG. 18, andFIG. 19, identification signals aren't actively sent from the instruments. The main body requires measuring means such as the identification andcommand circuit340 and theswitch circuit341 of theapparatus300 in FIG.19. Additionally, for example, it requires to; a) generate an accurate voltage, b) apply the voltage to the instrument, c) detect the electric current, and d) measure resistance value and specify the instrument, for measuring the resistance of the instrument. Especially c), detect the electric current, is troublesome operation and improvement has been desired.

Further, the resistance and the impedance used as identification means of the instrument in FIG.17 andFIG. 19 are passive elements and analog elements which can't actively generate signals by themselves, they can't be used when they get wet and its secular change can't be ignored. Therefore, they can't identify precisely so that they can't identify the particular instrument although they can identify the kinds of the instruments when there are plural members of the same kinds of instruments.

On the other hand in case ofFIG. 19 in which an instrument is constructed as a bridge medium with different logic elements provided for the main body, the above-mentioned secular change isn't caused, but the numbers of theidentification pins205aand theidentification bushes205bare required to be increased corresponding to the number of the kinds of the instrument. Therefore, there has been a problem such that theconnection part204 is enlarged and complicated.

Further in any of the cases ofFIG. 17,FIG. 18, andFIG. 19, instruments are considered as; passive members of the main body and aren't considered as active members which operate actively and independently.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been proposed in view of the above-mentioned problems. It is an object of the present invention to provide an identification type instrument which is easily and surely specified by the main body by actively generating self-identification signals, wherein a problem of increase of the kinds of instrument is solved and independent control of the instrument itself can be done, and to provide an identification type tube, an identification type adapter, and a medical apparatus using them.

The new terms such as an instrument assembly used in the present invention are explained.

An instrument assembly means an instrument itself, a combination of an instrument and an adapter, or a combination of an instrument and a tube according to circumstances. The reason for suggesting such term is as follows.

The object of the present invention is to specify an instrument connected to a main body. Therefore, its largest characteristic is in that identification signal output means for actively outputting unique identification signals specifying an instrument for the instrument detachably connected to the main body. In this case, even if the position housing the identification signal output means is the instrument itself, if the instrument and the main body are connected with a tube, the position may be at the tube. Further, an adapter incorporating the identification signal output means may be interposed between the tube and the instrument.

Accordingly, the subject to specify the instrument is the instrument itself, the instrument and the adapter, or the instrument and the tube according to the position where the identification signal output means is housed when seen from the main body. It is because specifying of the instrument can't be done without them when the identification signal output means is housed in the adapter or the tube.

The identification type instrument which is provided with the identification signal output means and can be specified by the main body when fitted on the main body detachably must have the identification signal output means. If the identification signal output means is housed in the adapter, the instrument is required to be defined to include the adapter. And if the identification signal output means is housed in the tube, the instrument is required to be defined to include the tube. On the other hand, a conventional instrument doesn't generally include the adapter and the tube, therefore, it maybe confused if the instrument is used as the one including the adapter and the tube.

Therefore, in the present invention, the term instrument assembly is newly proposed and the content is defined as mentioned above.

Accordingly, the original content of the instrument assembly includes all instruments for diagnosis or treatment by means of only electricity or water and air other than electricity like the conventional instrument and its applying means such as electricity isn't limited. Further, it may include instruments which do not use electricity. For example, it may include an instrument for cutting and grinding by electric drive means, for spraying and discharging clean water or drug solution, for treating by electric action, and for measuring voltage and current by a combination of a certain electric contact for diagnosis. In dentistry, an instrument assembly includes a handpiece, an air turbine handpiece, a micro motor handpiece, a scaler, photo polymerization means, a measuring device of root canal length, an intraoral camera, a pocket measuring device, a root canal filler, and a root canal treatment device.

The connection method of the instrument to the main body isn't limited by a tube and includes the manner such that the instrument assembly has a self drive source and is wirelessly connected with the main body.

The medical apparatus includes all the apparatus wherein the instrument assembly is connected to the main body via the tube or the adapter and diagnosis and treatment are executed by supplying power, water, and air to the instrument assembly and includes dental apparatus such as a dental unit and treatment apparatuses used in the field of otolaryngology, gynecology, urology, ophthalmology, and so on.

The detachable connection between the instrument assembly and the treatment apparatus includes multi joint connection and others.

An identification type instrument assembly is proposed at first, an identification type adapter is proposed secondly, an identification type tube is proposed later, and a medical apparatus using these identification type instrument assembly, adapter, and tube is proposed finally.

The identification type instrument assembly, adapter, and tube of the present invention aren't passive like the prior art and are characterized in that they house active identification signal output means for positively sending out self identification signals. The instrument assembly isn't considered as a passive member like the prior art, is considered as an active or independent member, sends out self identification signals by itself, and further is provided with self control ability.

In other words, the instrument assembly and so on are constructed as a member having a predetermined control ability respectively and for sending out self identification signals, not a tail end of a central processing system having control function only in an main body, so that a more flexible and higher adaptable distributed processing system can be constructed as the entire apparatus providing these instrument assembly and so on. Further according to this method, connection isn't limited to tubes and wireless connection is possible so that it can easily correspond to multi joint connection.

The inventors of the present invention adequately understand miniaturization of integrated circuit and its characteristic as a digital equipment, have found that micro-mini integrated circuit can be housed in an equipment in which space is limited such as dental instrument assembly, which has been considered to be impossible to embed active identification signal output means in prior art, and also have reached the present invention so as to utilize its active function and its digital function.

According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to the main body of the medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment, is characterized in that the instrument assembly has an identification signal output means for actively outputting self-identification signals prepared in advance under a predetermined procedure.

The instrument assembly is characterized in having the identification signal output means as the above-mentioned active element and the main body provided with the instrument assembly can specify the instrument assembly only by reading the identification signals output from the output means so that the read means in the whole main body can be simplified.

In this case, it isn't important that the connection of the instrument assembly and the main body is multi joint connection or not. If it is multi joint, it is indispensable to specify the kinds of the fitted instrument assembly and the identification signal output means is considered to the specifying means.

However, the active identification signal output means can also communicate signals wirelessly and transmit digital signals as identification signals, so that it can specify the instrument assembly in more detail, namely it can specify not only its kind but also its individuality. If the instrument assembly and the main body are connected by a tube or exclusive connection means, the output means can bring out advantages which haven't been seen in prior art.

For example, the instrument assembly and the main body are connected by an exclusive tube and individual specifying of the same kind of instrument assembly is possible, the main body can manage a record of use of each instrument assembly, distinct old and new, and distinct using operator, so that minute control can be possible.

In the identification type instrument assembly for use in diagnosis and treatment by detachably connecting to the main body of medical apparatus as the second embodiment, it is characterized in that the instrument assembly is comprised of an instrument and an adapter detachably fitted to the instrument for connecting the instrument assembly to the main body and the adapter houses identification signal output means for actively outputting self-identification signals prepared in advance under a predetermined procedure.

According to the instrument assembly, comparing to that of the first embodiment, the location of the identification signal output means is limited to the adapter which is able to be detachable from the instrument assembly, and the instrument assembly is defined to include the adapter.

The same effect as the first embodiment can be achieved and also the instrument assembly can be autoclaved by removing the adapter even if the identification signal output means doesn't have resistance to autoclave, when the identification signal output means is provided for the adapter.

In the third embodiment, the identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment is characterized in that the instrument assembly is comprised of an instrument and a tube detachably fitted to the instrument assembly for connecting the instrument assembly to the main body and the tube houses identification signals output means for actively outputting self-identification signals prepared in advance under a predetermined procedure.

According to the instrument assembly, comparing to that of the first embodiment, the location of the identification signal output means is limited to the tube which is detachable from the instrument assembly, and the instrument assembly is defined to include the tube.

The same effect as the first embodiment can be achieved and also the instrument assembly can be autoclaved by removing the tube even if the identification signal output means doesn't have resistance to autoclave, when the identification signal output means is provided for the tube.

In fourth embodiment the identification type instrument is characterized in that the identification signal output means is comprised of an ID code output element for serially outputting the ID code proper to the instrument assembly as identification signals.

In this embodiment, the identification signal output means is specifically defined as the ID code output element, and the instrument assembly can be specified by executing serial communication with the ID code output element in the main body. The identification signal output means can be constructed as the simplest one.

In fifth embodiment the identification type instrument assembly is characterized in that the identification signal output means is comprised as a microcomputer element or a communication integrated element.

In this instrument assembly, the identification signal output means is specifically defined as a microcomputer element or a communication integrated element. The main body can specify the instrument assembly by communicating these elements, and the instrument assembly can be controlled independently. On the other hand in the main body, a predetermined control is transferred to the instrument assembly and a distributed processing system can be constructed.

In sixth embodiment the identification type instrument assembly is characterized in that the identification signal output means is provided with nonvolatile storage means and serial data, voltage level signals amplitude is varied at a predetermined repetition cycle, and frequency identification signals of whose frequency is varied are used as the identification signals based on the data stored in the nonvolatile storage means.

In the instrument assembly, a generation method of identification signals of the identification signal output means and embodiment of the identification signals are defined, and signals are defined as digital signals or signals capable of being digitized, so that the instrument assembly having the same effect as the first to third embodiment can be easily achieved.

The identification type instrument assembly described in the 7-th embodiment is characterized in that a connection part for detachably connecting the instrument assembly to the main body is a multi joint connection.

The multi joint connection means connection in which plural kinds of different instrument bodies are connected to a single connection, or to any of a plural connections provided for the main body as explained in prior art. The location of the connection isn't limited and there is a case that it is directly provided for the main body or it is provided at the tip end of the tube from the main body depending on the content of the instrument assembly.

When the instrument assembly and the main body are thus connected by the multi joint connection, it is especially important to specify the connected instrument. Active identification signal output means can easily and surely specify the instrument and facilitate the equipment construction of the main body.

Particularly in these years, medical apparatus is often provided with microcomputer elements as control means. In such a case the signals from the identification signal output means is read by the control means with suitable software and the instrument assembly is specified without providing separate analog identification means as explained in the prior art.

In the identification type instrument assembly of the 8-th embodiment, the instrument assembly is comprised of an instrument and an adapter detachably fitted to the instrument and is capable of detachably connecting to a tube from the main body via the adapter, the identification signal output means is provided for the adapter, and connection between the adapter and the tube is a multi joint connection.

In such an instrument assembly, the location of the multi joint connection in the 7-th embodiment is defined between the adapter provided for the instrument assembly and the tube like the second embodiment. The same effect as the second embodiment in addition to the same effect as the 7-th embodiment can be achieved.

In the identification type instrument assembly of the 9-th embodiment the instrument assembly is comprised of an instrument and a tube detachably fitted to the instrument and is capable of detachably connecting to the main body via the tube, the identification signal output means is provided for the tube, and connection between the tube and the main body is a multi joint connection.

In such an instrument assembly, the location of the multi joint connection in 7-th embodiment is defined between the tube provided for the instrument assembly and the main body like the third embodiment. The same effect as third embodiment in addition to the same effect as the 7-th embodiment can be achieved.

The identification type adapter detachably fitted for an instrument assembly for use in diagnosis and treatment by detachably connecting to the main body of medical apparatus of the 10-th embodiment is characterized in that the adapter is provided with identification signal output means for actively outputting unique self-identification signals prepared in advance for identifying the instrument assembly under a predetermined procedure, and the connected instrument assembly can be specified in the main body by the identification signals output from the identification signal output means when the instrument assembly having the adapter is connected to the main body.

According to such an adapter, the adapter provided for the identification type instrument assembly as the second embodiment is defined as a separate one. The same effect as the second embodiment can be achieved by detachably fitting the adapter between the instrument assembly without having the identification signal output means and the main body.

The identification type adapter of the 11-th embodiment is characterized in that a connection part for detachably connecting the adapter to the main body is a multi joint connection.

According to such an adapter, the adapter provided for the identification type instrument assembly as the 8-th embodiment is defined as a separate one. The same effect as the 8-th embodiment can be achieved by detachably fitting the adapter by means of a multi joint connection between the instrument assembly without having the identification signal output means and the main body.

The identification type tube of the 12-th embodiment is a tube connecting an instrument assembly and the main body of medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment by detachably connecting to the main body of medical apparatus and is characterized in that the tube is provided with identification signal output means for actively outputting unique self-identification signals prepared in advance for identifying the connected instrument assembly under a predetermined procedure, and the connected instrument assembly can be specified in the main body by the identification signals outputted from the identification signal output means when the instrument assembly is connected to the main body via the tube.

According to such a tube, the tube provided for the identification type instrument assembly as the third embodiment is defined as a separate one. The same effect as the third embodiment can be achieved by detachably fitting the adapter between the instrument assembly without having the identification signal output means and the main body.

The identification type tube of the 13-th embodiment is characterized in that a connection part for detachably connecting the tube to the main body is a multi joint connection.

According to such a tube, the tube provided for the identification type instrument assembly as the 9-th embodiment is defined as a separate one. The same effect as the 9-th embodiment can be achieved by detachably fitting the adapter by means of a multi joint connection between the instrument assembly without having the identification signal output means and the main body.

The medical apparatus of the 14-th embodiment is for use in diagnosis and treatment by detachably connecting plural instrument bodies to the main body and is characterized in that the instrument assembly is comprised as identification type instrument assembly having identification signal output means for actively outputting self-identification signals prepared in advance under a predetermined procedure, and the connected instrument assembly can be specified in the main body by the identification signals output from the identification signal output means when the instrument assembly is connected to the main body.

Such a medical apparatus corresponds to the identification type instrument assembly of the first embodiment, and the same effect as the first embodiment can be achieved.

The 15-th embodiment is characterized in that a drive circuit or a control circuit corresponding to the specified instrument assembly can be automatically connected to the instrument assembly.

Such a medical apparatus defines corresponding action of the main body after specifying the instrument assembly. After specifying, the drive circuit or the control circuit of the main body automatically corresponds to the specified instrument assembly. Therefore, an operator can concentrate on medical examination because he only fits the instrument assembly to the main body without setting the drive circuit of the apparatus according to the fitted instrument, thereby it is convenient.

According to the medical apparatus of the 16-th embodiment, the medical apparatus is characterized in that the display mode of display means and/or input mode of input means such as a touch panel can be automatically switched corresponding to the specified instrument assembly when the instrument assembly is specified.

According to such a medical apparatus, either the mode of the display means or the mode of the input means or both of them can be switched so as to correspond to the attached instrument assembly other than switching the drive circuit, so it is further convenient for the operator.

According to the medical apparatus of the 17-th embodiment, the medical apparatus is characterized in that management of usage history and distinction of using operator of the specified instrument assembly can be executed when the instrument assembly is specified.

The medical apparatus positively utilizes the advantage that not only the kind of the instrument assembly but also the individuality of the instrument assembly can be specified by the identification signals outputted from the identification signal output means as the first embodiment, thereby more minute control of the instrument assembly can be executed.

According to the medical apparatus of the 18-th embodiment, the medical apparatus is characterized in that the main body is provided with a microcomputer element or a communication integrated element as identification means of identification signals output from the identification signal output means of the connected instrument assembly.

According to such a medical apparatus the identification means of the identification signals outputted from the instrument assembly is defined. Because the identification signal output means of the instrument assembly actively outputs identification signals, the microcomputer element or the communication integrated element can be provided as the identification means for the main body, and construction of the apparatus can be facilitated. Further, if the microcomputer element and so on is provided as the control means for the main body, suitable software can realize the identification.

According to the medical apparatus of the 19-th embodiment, the medical apparatus is characterized in that wiring of the connection part detachably connecting the instrument assembly with the main body is a tree structure.

Such a medical apparatus has the advantage that because the connected instrument actively outputs identification signals, its pathway doesn't affect specifying of the instrument assembly. The connection to the connection part of the instrument assembly can be tree wiring, not separate wiring like in the prior art, so that wiring of the main body can be simplified.

According to the medical apparatus of the 20-th embodiment, the medical apparatus is, characterized in that the instrument assembly is the identification type instrument assembly as the first to 9-th embodiment, and/or is the instrument assembly connected via the identification type adapter as the 10-th or 11-th embodiment, and/or the instrument assembly connected via the identification type tube as the 12-th or 13-th embodiment.

According to such a medical apparatus, it is defined that the medical apparatus as any one of the 14-th-19-th embodiment corresponds to the identification type instrument assembly as the first to 9-th embodiment, the instrument assembly connected via the identification type adapter as the 10-th or 11-th embodiment, or the instrument assembly connected via the identification type tube as the 12-th or 13-th embodiment. Effects of the relating embodiment are synergistically achieved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention, FIG.1(a) is a partially cutaway outline view and FIG.1(b) is a partially cutaway outline view of the substantial part.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the substantial part of the other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 3 explains the identification signal output means used for the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention, FIG.3(a) is a block diagram showing its construction conceptually, FIG.3(b) is a conceptual diagram showing connection of the main body and the signals, FIG.3(c) is a conceptual diagram showing tree construction of the main body for connecting the identification signal output means, and FIG.3(d) is a time chart showing one embodiment of the identification signals output from the identification signal output means.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows one embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention having multi joint connection.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument assembly in FIG.6.

FIG. 8 shows other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention having multi joint connection.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument assembly in FIG.8.

FIG. 10 shows other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention having multi joint connection.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument assembly inFIG. 4,FIG. 8, and FIG.10.

FIG. 12 shows other embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention, FIG.12(a) is its entire perspective view, and FIG.12(b) is a display sample of the display means.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing one embodiment of the identification type adapter of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing one embodiment of the identification type tube of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing other embodiment of the identification type adapter of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram showing other embodiment of the identification type tube of the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows one embodiment of the conventional instrument assembly.

FIG. 18 shows other embodiment of the conventional instrument assembly, FIG.18(a) is an outline view showing its usage, and FIG.18(b) shows details of its connection.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the conventional instrument assembly.

FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of the instrument assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The preferred embodiments of the present invention are explained referring to the drawings. An instrument assembly, an adapter, a tube, and a medical apparatus for dental use are explained as an example, however, the present invention isn't limited to them as mentioned above.

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention, FIG.1(a) is a partially cutaway outline view and FIG.1(b) is a partially cutaway outline view of the substantial part.FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the substantial part of the other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention.

The installation method of the identification signal output means which is a characteristic of the present invention is explained referring to these drawings.

The identificationtype instrument assembly1 inFIG. 1 is a micro motor handpiece, comprised of a tool holder1awith a cutting tool at its tip end, detachable from the main part1b, the main part1bhousing a small motor, and the main part1bis connected to the main body (not shown) of the medical apparatus by atube21. The instrument assembly is a type (IA) constructed within theinstrument1 itself

In this embodiment, identification signal output means6 is housed in a stator1cof the small motor housed in the main part1band its detail is shown in FIG.1(b).

The stator1chas acoil1caaround aninner cylinder1cband is integrally formed by coating and molding withresin1cctogether with aboard1cdfitting these control members. Aconnection terminal1ceis extended from theboard1cd. In this figure, one part of the coating is broken to show theboard1cdand thecoil1ca. The minute identification signal output means6 is provided on theboard1cdtogether with other control members and integrally coated and molded with resin. Some of theconnection terminals1ceare used as aconnection terminal6efor the identification signal output means6.

Thus, the identification signal output means6 is preferably housed in theinstrument assembly1 from the first. Further in this case, the identification signal output means6 is integrally coated with resin and isn't affected by the outer environment so that its performance is safely achieved.

FIG. 2 shows other method for housing the identification signal output means in the instrument assembly constructed as the micro-motor handpiece like FIG.1.

The stator1cof the small motor housed in the main part1bof theinstrument assembly1 is housed in the main part1bthrough abracket1dand aring1eat theconnection terminal1ceside. Anadapter31 is interposed between the stator1cand thebracket1dand the identification signal output means6 housed in thebracket1dis held and guarded by theprotect ring31.

In this way, the identification signal output means can be housed in the instrument assembly in which the identification signal output means isn't originally housed.

FIG. 3 explains the identification signal output means used for the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention, FIG.3(a) is a block diagram showing its construction conceptually, FIG.3(b) is a conceptual diagram showing connection of the main body and the signals, FIG.3(c) is a conceptual diagram showing tree construction of the main body for connecting the identification signal output means, and FIG.3(d) is a time chart showing one embodiment of the identification signals output from the identification signal output means.FIG. 4 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention.

Details and basic function of the identification signal output means are explained referring to these drawings. The same numerals are allotted for the same members which have been already explained and their explanations are omitted.

The identification signal output means6 in FIG.3(a) is one embodiment of the identification signal output means of the present invention and is comprised ofCPU6afor controlling the entire output means6, ROM (nonvolatile storage means)6bfor storing data required for control, anoutput circuit6coperable by receiving instructions from theCPU6a, and a connection line comprised of anelectric source line6ea, asignal line6eb, and acommon line6ec.

The identification signal output means6 is housed in the identificationtype instrument assembly1 as shown in FIG.3(b) andconnection terminals6da,6db, and6dccorresponding torespective connection line6eare provided for theinstrument assembly1. Theinstrument assembly1 is detachably fitted to themain body10a.

Terminal receivers9da,9db,9dcare provided for themain body10acorresponding to theconnection terminals6da,6db,6dcof theinstrument assembly1. Theseterminal receivers9da,9db,9dcare connected to theelectric source line9ca, thesignal line9cd, and thecommon line9ccand a resistance R is bridged between theelectric source line9caand thesignal line9cb.

Theseelectric source line9ca, asignal line9cb, and acommon line9ccare collectively called theconnection line9cof the main body. Thesignal line9cbis connected to the identification means9 (seeFIG. 4) provided for the main body. In this embodiment, the connection between theinstrument assembly1 and themain body10ais called aninstrument connection4.

Thus, when theinstrument assembly1 is fitted to themain body10a, theconnection terminals6da,6db,6dcof theinstrument assembly1 and theconnection receivers9da,9db,9dcof themain body10aare connected, electric source (5V direct current in this embodiment) is supplied from the main body, theCPU6aof the identification signal output means6 detects the supply. Unique self identification signals prepared in advance for identifying theinstrument assembly1 are read out from theROM6band is output from thesignal line6ebthrough theoutput circuit6c, and the identification means9 receives the identification signals by thesignal line9dband specifies the instrument assembly by simply reading the signal or by communicating with the identification signal output means6.

The identification signal output means6 can be constructed fromCPU6aof the most simple type as an ID code output element which, by receiving electric source from the main body, serially output an ID code proper for theinstrument body1 as identification signals. In such a case the construction of the identification signal output means is most simple.

However, the identification signal output means6 can construct theCPU6aas a more advanced microcomputer element or communication integrated element. In such a case, the instrument assembly can be controlled more independently and the main body can transfer a predetermined control to the instrument assembly and a distributed processing system can be constructed.

The identification signals are read out and output from the ROM (nonvolatile storage means)6band its embodiment includes not only the above-mentioned serial data but also voltage level signals of which amplitude is varied at a predetermined repetition cycle and frequency identification signals of which frequency is varied.

The identification signal output means6 actively outputs identification signals so that the pathway of the signals doesn't have an affect on specifying of the instrument assembly. Whenplural instrument connections4 are provided, the connections can be a tree structure wiring like FIG.3(c) and wiring of the main body can be simplified unlike the conventional separate wiring.

A communication method when the connections to theinstrument connections4 are tree structure wiring, an ID code output element is used as the identification signal output means, and ID code which is serial data is outputted as identification signals is explained in more detail also referring to FIG.3(d).

Because thesignal line6ebis always “H” when nothing is connected to themain body10a, the identification means9 detects it as non connected and executes a non connection display.

When theinstrument assembly1 housing the identification signal output means6 is connected, the power source is supplied from themain body10aand serial data shown in FIG.3(d) is output in the identification signal output means6. The data is comprised of a combination of “L” 100ms and above, “H” of 1ms or “L”, or “H” of 2ms or “L” and sends 6 bit code (001101B) per 1ms. The signal “H” of 1ms next to the “L” 100ms and above is defined as a start bit SB.

The identification signal output means6 continuously outputs such serial data, the identification means9 of themain body10asamples the received data per 1ms, detects the data, reads the ID code of theconnected instrument assembly1, and specify theinstrument assembly1.

FIG. 4 shows amedical apparatus10 wherein six different kinds of identification type instrument assembly (1A-1F) are connected to themain body10avia eachexclusive tube2. The instrument assembly is a type IC in which theinstruments1A-1F are combined with thetubes2 respectively.

The kinds of the instrument assembly IC, namely theinstrument assembly1, are aturbine handpiece1A, amotor handpiece1B, ascaler1C, a three-way cylinder1D, a highspeed motor handpiece1E, and a lowspeed motor handpiece1F. Eachtube2 is connected to respectiveexclusive connection4bprovided for themain body10avia aconnection part4aat tube side. Namely themedical apparatus10 doesn't correspond to a multi joint connection.

Themain body10aincludes anair circuit7afor supplying air required for the instrument assembly IC by receiving compressed air from an air source A, awater circuit7bfor supplying water required for the instrument assembly IC by receiving water from a water source W, aturbine drive circuit7c, amotor drive circuit7d, ascaler drive circuit7e, acylinder drive circuit7f, a high speedmotor drive circuit7gand a low speedmotor drive circuit7h, all circuits supplying drive power source depending on the kinds of the connected instrument assembly IC (1A-1F) by receiving power supply from an outer electric source E, acontrol circuit7icontrolling the entire apparatus, output means (not shown) such as a liquid crystal display and a printer, and input means (not shown) such as a touch panel or a foot controller. It is also provided with the identification means9 for distinguishing the identification signals output from the connected identification type instrument assembly IC in addition to an input andoutput circuit7jfor controlling the means and adrive control circuit7hmentioned later.

Thedrive control circuit7kconnects and disconnects thedrive circuits7c-7hprovided corresponding to the instrument assembly IC (1A-1F) one by one and switches to connect theair circuit7aand the water circuit to the instrument assembly IC (1A-1F) if necessary.

In this embodiment, the housed position of the identification signal output means6 in the instrument assembly IC is detected. Namely, the instrument assembly IC is considered to include thetube2 and theconnection4aand the identification signal output means6 is housed in the end of thetube2, that is at theconnection4aat tube side, not in theinstrument1A-1F.

In case of type IC, theinstrument1 is usually detachable to thetube2 and theinstrument1 can be autoclaved by removing from the tube if required, therefore there is no problem if the identification signal output means6 doesn't have resistance to being autoclaved.

Next, the role of the identification signal output means6 which is connected to themain body10aby theexclusive connection4, has respective drive circuit, and doesn't correspond to multi joint connection is explained.

The identification signal output means6 can be constructed as the ID code output means as explained inFIG. 3, the ID code is allotted as an individual production number of each ID code output means, so that the output means6 can specify not only the kind of the housed instrument but also the individual instrument. Accordingly all of each instrument assembly IC can be distinguished.

Therefore, individual record management of each instrument assembly such as frequency in use, integrated time of use, and frequency of trouble is executed, and warning is given for the instrument which has been used over the predetermined time or such instrument may be made impossible to be used by controlling connection and disconnection of thedrive control circuit7k. Further, an exclusive instrument is set for each operator and a warning may be given or the instrument is made impossible to be used if an operator connects the other operator's instrument assembly by mistake.

Following is one sample of the record management table of the instrument assembly for executing the above-mentioned individual record management used in thecontrol circuit7iof themedical apparatus10.

<Record management table of instrument assembly>

				integrated
ID code	kind	operator	previous used date	use time	record
A0101001	TH	AA	000630/1500-1600	500H30M	K0
A0101021	TH	BB	000703/1000-1100	000H15M	K1
B0202001	MH	AA	000630/1600-1620	1600H20M	K0
C0303001	SC	AA	000620/1100-1110	1100H00M	K1

In this table “TH” in “kind” is a turbine handpiece, “MH” is a motor handpiece, “SC” is a scaler. In “previous used date” latest used date is shown in year, month, and date in two figures and start time and end time of the used time in 24-hour. In “integrated used time”, the sum of the used time of the instrument assembly so far is shown in hour (H) and minute (M). In “record”, several records in the past is shown as reference number, for example “K0” means there was no trouble and “K1” shows there was one trouble.

If such a management table is prepared for theapparatus10 and is revised each time the instrument is used, the above-mentioned individual record management of the instrument assembly can be executed. Therefore, it can be prevented that an operator uses the other operator's instrument by mistake, limit time of usage is set and the instrument which is over this limit can be exchanged. In such a manner more minute usage control of the instrument assembly can be executed and it makes a contribution to more safe medical examination.

The identification signal output means actively outputs signals by itself, therefore, it can send and transmit signals between the instrument assembly and the main body in wireless, the number of the connection terminals of the connection can be reduced, and further the instrument assembly can be cordlessly constructed as a complete independent type.

Because the identification signal output means6 of the instrument assembly IC actively outputs identification signals, CPU (microcomputer element)9aor CIC (communication integrated element)9bcan be provided as the identification means9 of themain body10aso that the construction of the apparatus can be simplified. Further, if CPU (microcomputer element) is already provided for thecontrol circuit7iof themain body10a, the CPU of thecontrol circuit7ican be also used as the identification means9 by using a program having the function of the identification means.

FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention. The instrument assembly is type IB in which an exclusive adapter housing each identification signal output means6 is detachably fitted toseveral instruments1A-1C.

The instrument assembly IB (1A-1C) and the main body are connected via eachexclusive tube21, theconnection41 between theinstrument assembly1A-1C and the adapter3 and the connection between theadapter31 and thetube21 are connected by each exclusive connection terminal in1 to1. It isn't multi joint type connection.

The instrument assembly IB can be autoclaved if required by removing theinstrument1 from theadapter31 likeFIG. 4 so that if the identification signal output means6 doesn't have resistance to being autoclaved, there is no trouble. Further, its individual record management can be executed like the instrument assembly IC in FIG.4.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing one embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention having multi joint connection. In FIG.6 andFIG. 13-17, the terminal at the connection is shown as flat so as to conceptually show the positions and kinds of the terminal and its actual construction may be a combination of convex and concave likeFIG. 5 or may be provided concentricity back and forth in the axial direction.

In the above-mentioned, the connection of the instrument assembly and the main body isn't limited to multi joint type connection. Hereinafter, embodiments of which connection corresponds to multi joint are explained.

Multi joint connection means a connection in which plural instrument bodies can be connected and used for either a single connection or any one of plural connections of the main body. In such a case it is required to specify which instrument assembly is connected to the multi joint connection and the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention especially brings out its effect.

In this embodiment, the connection of thetube22 introduced from themain body10ais constructed as a multijoint connection51hand alsoconnections51b,51c,51gof the corresponding identificationtype instrument assembly1B,1C,1G are constructed as multi joint connection. The instrument assembly is type IAM which is comprised of the instrument itself and the connection to the main body is a multi joint type.

The multijoint connection51hof thetube22 has a connection terminal for electricity,53a,53b,53c,53d,53e, a connection terminal forair53f, and aconnection terminal53gfor water and further has the electricsource connection terminal9daand the connection terminal forsignals9dafor identification, mentioned above. Theconnection terminal53eof the connection terminals for electricity is a common line and functions as a connection terminal forcommon line9dcfor identification.

The appropriate numbers of the above-mentioned connection terminals are prepared and their positions are fixed in such a manner that the required electric source, water, and air can be supplied if any one of the instrument bodies IAM (1B,1C,1G) which is detachably used for thetube22 is fitted.

The multijoint connection51b,51c,51gof the instrument assembly IAM (1B,1C,1G) houses the identification signal output means6 and corresponds to multi joint. Theconnection51bof the instrument assembly IAM (1B) constructed as a motor handpiece hasconnection terminals52a,52b,52cfor a small three-phase motor, aconnection terminal52dfor a lamp, aconnection terminal52efor a common line, aconnection terminal52ffor air, aconnection terminal52gfor water, and further an electricsource connection terminal6dafor identification. The connection terminal for acommon line52eis similarly shared as6dc.

The connection terminals52a-52g,6da-6dcof the instrument assembly are located at the same place as theconnection terminals53a-53g,9da-9dcof the tube. Therefore, if the multijoint connection51bof the instrument assembly IAM (1B) is connected to the multijoint connection51hof thetube22, the connection terminals of electric source, water, and air required for theinstrument assembly1B are connected and electricity, water and air are supplied.

Theconnection51cof the instrument assembly IAM (1C) constructed as a scaler has a connection terminal for ascaler52a, a connection terminal for acommon line52e, a connection terminal forwater52g. As for theconnection terminals6da,6db,6dcfor identification are the same as theconnection51bof the instrument assembly IAM (1B).

Theconnection terminals52a,52e,52g,6da-6dcof the instrument assembly are located at the same place as theconnection terminals53a,53e,53g,9da-9dcof the tube. Therefore, if the multijoint connection51cof the instrument assembly IAM (1C) is connected to the multijoint connection51hof thetube22, the connection terminals of electric source, water, and air required for theinstrument assembly1C are connected and electricity, water and air are supplied.

Theconnection51gof the instrument assembly IAM (1G) constructed as a photo polymerization means has a connection terminal forpolymer lamp52c, a connection terminal for acommon line52e, a connection terminal forair52f. As for the connection terminals foridentification6da,6db,6dcare the same as theconnection51bof the instrument assembly IAM (1B).

Theinstrument1B constructed as a motor handpiece, theinstrument1C constructed as a scaler, and theinstrument1G newly constructed as photo polymerization means as other embodiment among the sixinstruments1A-1F shown inFIG. 4 are shown as a sample of the instrument assembly IAM. The reason is that they are appropriate as an embodiment in which selection of electric source, water, and air is different. If the connection is a multi joint corresponding type, the sixinstruments1A-1F shown in FIG.4 and other type instruments may be constructed as the instrument assembly IAM used by detachably connecting to the multijoint connection51hof thetube22.

The multijoint connection51 comprised of the multijoint connections51b,51c,51gof the instrument assembly and the multijoint connection51hof the tube is thus constructed and can be detachably used for any instrument assembly. In such a case, it is important to specify the kind of fitted instrument assembly. The identification signal output means6 housed in each identification type instrument assembly IAM (1B,1C,1G) outputs identification signals, the main body reads the identification signals or communicates with the identification signal output means6 so that the connected instrument assembly is specified and the main body can correspond.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the main body having the identification type instrument assembly in FIG.6.

Themedical apparatus10A is different from theapparatus10 inFIG. 4 in that theconnection41 of the instrument assembly IAM (1A-1F) and thetube22 is amulti connection41 as shown in FIG.6.

Correspondingly, the drive switch circuit71 connects and disconnects the instrument assembly and the drive circuit in themain body10a. Moreover the identification type instrument assembly IAM (1A-1F) connected to the multijoint connection41 is specified by the identification means6, the drive switch circuit71 selects and switches correspondingdrive circuits7c-7hso as to selectively connect theair circuit7aand thewater circuit7b.

In this embodiment, because twotubes22 are introduced from aconnection44 of themain body10a, the instrument connected to the multijoint connection41hof eachtube22 is specified and the drive circuit specified for eachtube22 is selected and switched so as to supply air or water.

For example, if the instrument assembly IAM (1A) is connected to the upper multijoint connection41h(A), the identification means9 discriminates the identification signals of the identification signal output means6 housed in the instrument assembly IAM (1A), specifies the instrument assembly IAM (1A) is a turbine handpiece, then control command is sent from thecontrol circuit7i, the drive switch circuit71 switches to connect theturbine drive circuit7c, requiredair circuit7a, andair circuit7bto the multijoint connection41h(A) so as to supply drive power, air, and water suitable for the instrument IAM (1A).

In the same manner, if the instrument assembly IAM (1C) is connected to the lower multijoint connection41h(B), thescaler drive circuit7e, requiredair circuit7a, and thewater circuit7bare switched to be connected with the multijoint connection41h(B) so that drive power, air, and water suitable for the instrument IAM (1C) are supplied.

Accordingly, drive power and so on suitable for the connected instrument assembly can be automatically selected and supplied only by detachably and exchangeably connecting the instrument assembly IAM housing the identification signal output means6 by means of multi joint connection to thetube22, and therefore, it is very convenient for an operator.

FIG. 8 shows other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention having multi joint connection. The instrument assembly is type ICM in which the instrument and an exclusive tube housing the identification signal output means are combined and connection of the tube and the main body is a multi joint connection.

The identification type instrument assembly ICM (1A,1B,1C) is different fromFIG. 6 in that the multijoint connection45 is provided between themain body10aand atube23 comprising the instrument assembly ICM. Tip oftube23A,23B,23C constructs aconnection46A,46B,46C respectively corresponding to theinstrument1A,1B,1C. Theconnection45a,45b,45cbetween themain body10ais constructed as multi joint connection like the multijoint connection51 in FIG.6. The joint45hprovided for themain body10ais also multi joint connection so that any one oftubes23A,23B,23C can be connected to themain body10ato be used.

In this case, the identification signal output means6 is of course housed in thetube23. It may be housed in the middle of the tube like thetube23A, in the multijoint connection45bat main body side like thetube23B, or in thetip connection46C side like thetube23C.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the main body having the identification type instrument assembly in FIG.8.

Themain body10B is different from themain body10A inFIG. 7 in that the multijoint connection55 is located between thetube23 comprising the instrument assembly ICM and themain body10a, not between the instrument and the tube, but the other construction is the same.

Also under such construction, the instrument assembly ICM connected to three multijoint connections55hof themain body10ais specified by the identification signals outputted from the identification signal output means6 housed in thetube23, then specified drive circuit is selected and switched per eachconnection55hso as to supply air and water.

FIG. 10 shows other embodiment of the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention having a multi joint connection. The instrument assembly is type IBM corresponding to a multi joint connection and an exclusive adapter housing the identification signal output means6 respectively is detachably fitted to theinstruments1A-1C.

The instrument assembly IBM (1A-1C) is the same as the instrument assembly IB inFIG. 5 in that the instrument assembly is combined with the adapter, but is different in that the connection to the tube introduced from the main body is multijoint connection51.

Theconnection41 of theinstrument bodies1A-1C is the same as the instrument assembly IB inFIG. 5, and the connection of theadapter32 and thetube22 has the same construction as theconnection51 in FIG.6.

With such construction, the instrument assembly IBM (1A-1C) is detachably connected to the main body by means of a multi joint connection, the main body specifies the connected instrument by the identification signal output means6 housed in theadapter32, then the drive circuit is switched so as to correspond to the specified instrument assembly.

Only theinstruments1A-1C can be autoclaved by separating theinstruments1A-1C from theadapter32 if the identification signal output means6 has no resistance to being autoclaved like the instrument IB in FIG.5.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram conceptually showing one embodiment of the medical apparatus having the identification type instrument bodies inFIG. 4,FIG. 8, and FIG.10.

According to themedical apparatus10C, the identification type instrument assembly ICM (1G,1J) inFIG. 8 in which the end of the tube housing the identification signal output means6 is multijoint connections55g,55j, the identification type instrument assembly IC (1K) inFIG. 4 which is connected to the main body by theconnection4aof the exclusive tube housing the identification signal output means6, and the instrument assembly IBM (1A,1B,1C) inFIG. 10 in which theadapter32 housing the identification signal output means6 is detachably fitted and the tube side of theadapter32 is constructed as a multijoint connection51a,51b,51care detachably fitted and used.

Correspondingly, themain body10ahas the multijoint connection55h, aconnection4bexclusive for the instrument IC and thetube22 having the multijoint connection51his introduced.

The instrument assembly ICM (1G) is a photo polymerization means, the instrument ICM (1J) is an intraoral camera, and the instrument assembly IC (1K) is a measuring device of root canal length. The instrument assembly IBM (1A,1B,1C) are a turbine handpiece, a motor handpiece, and a scaler respectively.

Under such construction, drive circuits corresponding to the instrument connected by multi joint connection or by an exclusive line are switched to be driven and medical examination can be executed.

Further in such a case, each instrument assembly IBM (1A,1B,1C) uses water or air so that the tube is thick. If the thick tube is made multi purpose, the number of the tubes is reduced and a tangle of the tubes hardly happens. Operationality of the tubes isn't deteriorated in case of using exclusive tubes.

On the other hand, because the instrument bodies ICM (1G,1J) is a photo polymerization means and an intraoral camera, water and air aren't required so that a tube is used for electric source and can be thinner, thereby improving operationality.

Accordingly, the identification type instrument bodies of which multi joint connection is differently located are combined at random and the effects of the multi joint connection can be multi purposely used, the connected instrument assembly can be easily and surely specified, and further the identification means of the main body can be simplified.

If the identification type instrument assembly without a multi joint connection is mixed, the main body can specify the instrument assembly by the same identification means.

Therefore, the above-mentioned several types of the instrument assembly IA, IB, IC, IAM, IBM, ICM may be used by mixture in one medical apparatus.

FIG. 12 shows other embodiment of the main body having the identification type instrument assembly of the present invention, FIG.12(a) is its entire perspective view, and FIG.12(b) is a display sample of the display means.

The medical apparatus in FIG.12(a) uses the instrument assembly IBM inFIG. 10 which is detachably connected to the multijoint connection51h(not seen in this figure) at the tip end of thetube22 from themain body10a(not seen in this figure).

In this figure, display means8ais comprised of liquid crystal display, input means8bis comprised of a clear touch panel covering the surface of theliquid crystal display8a, adental treatment chair8cfor mounting a patient to examine, a basin table8d, a sidetable support arm8e, alight pole8f, and a side table8gare provided. The display means8ais also used as the input means8bis provided around the upper part of the side table8gin such a position that it is easily viewable by an operator working at the side table8g.

Threetubes22 are seen and any one of the plural instrument bodies IBM (1) can be detachably and exchangeably fitted. The kind and individuality of the connected instrument assembly IBM (1) are specified by the identification signals output from the identification signal output means and corresponding drive circuit is selected and switched in the main body, so that examination corresponding to the instrument assembly can be executed.

The kind of the instrument assembly IBM (1) connected to thetube22 is shown on the liquid crystal display means8aas shown in FIG.12(b).

This figure shows the individual display of thetube22 “tube A, tube B, tube C” and shows that the kind of the instrument assembly IBM (1) connected to each tube A, B, C are a motor handpiece, a turbine handpiece, and a scaler.

Awindow8aaalso has input means9aaas a touch panel and details of the motor handpiece connected to the tube A are shown inother window8abwhen thebutton9aais drugged to the position of the tube A and clicked. Further, input and confirmation of designated revolution speed can be done using the window as thetouch panel9ab. Namely, display mode and input mode of the specified instrument assembly are automatically prepared and simple selection of the mode can be made, so that it is convenient.

In this case, if there is one thetube22, it isn't required to select and display mode and input mode corresponding to the kind of the connected instrument is automatically displayed.

The display means8aand the input means8bcan be used as display means and input means for managing individual record control of the instrument assembly.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing one embodiment of the identification type adapter of the present invention.

Theidentification type adapters3A,3B,3C, detachably connects theinstrument11A,11B,11C having connection C1, C2, C3 which isn't multi joint type to thetube22 having the multijoint connection51hand have the identification signal output means6, so that specifying of theinstrument11A,11B,11C can be done by themain body10a.

Connection terminals corresponding to the identification signal output means6 are provided for each connection, however, they are omitted to be shown so as to prevent complication.

Theinstrument11A,11B,11C has a connection part C1, C2, C3 and required connection terminals D1-D3, D4-D7, D8-D10 corresponding to its kind. Their positions don't meet theconnection terminals53a-53gof the multijoint connection51hof thetube22, therefore, they aren't used for thetube22 as they are and theadapter3A,3B,3C is used respectively.

Theadapter3A,3B,3C has aconnection31A,31B,31C at tube side and aconnection33A,33B,33C at instrument side respectively. The positions of theterminal connections32a-32gof theconnection31A,31B,31C at tube side are designed to meet the positions of theconnection terminals53a-53gof thetube22 and its kind corresponds to the requirement of theinstrument11A,11B,11C. On the other hand, theconnection terminals34a-34jof theconnection33A,33B,33C at the instrument side correspond to the connection terminals D1-D10 of theinstrument11A,11B,11C.

Here, theconnection terminal32a,32g,32eof theconnection31A at tube side of the adapter3A is connected to theconnection terminal34a,34b,34cof theconnection33A at instrument side respectively, theconnection terminal32b,32f,32g,32eof theconnection31B at tube side of theadapter3B is connected to theconnection terminal34d,34e,34f,34gof theconnection33B of instrument side, and theconnection terminals32f,32c,32eof the connection31C at tube side of theadapter3C are connected to theterminal connections34h,34i,34jof theconnection33C of instrument side.

Theadapter3A,3B,3C is exclusive for theinstrument11A,11B,11C respectively so that theinstrument11A,11B,11C can be specified by the identification signals sent from the identification signal output means6 housed in theadapter3A,3B,3C.

Accordingly when such anadapter3A,3B,3C is used, theinstrument11A,11B,11C which doesn't have a multi joint connection can be detachably fitted to thetube22 having the multijoint connection51h, the main body can automatically specify the kind of the instrument and switch to the corresponding drive circuit, thereby the instrument can be used.

If theadapter3A,3B,3C is capable of being detached from theinstrument11A,11B,11C, only theinstrument11A,11B,11C need be autoclaved even if the identification signal output means6 doesn't have resistance to being autoclaved.

In short, the identification type instrument assembly IBM is constructed by fitting the adapter for the prior instrument which doesn't correspond to a multi joint connection.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing one embodiment of the identification type tube of the present invention.

The idea of the identification type adapter inFIG. 13 is diverted to anidentification type tube2A,2B. If thetube2A,2B is used, the instrument12A,12B which isn't a multi joint type can be detachably connected to the multijoint connection55hprovided for the main body and thetube2A,2B includes the identification signal output means6, so that kind of the instrument can be specified.

Aconnection46A,46B is exclusively connected to the instrument12A,12B by connection terminals F1, F2, F3, F4 exclusive for the instrument12A,12B respectively. On the other hand, aconnection55a,55bof thetube2A,2B is multi joint type,connection terminals57d,57e,57c,57ecorresponding to the connection terminals F1, F2, F3, F4 of the instrument12A,12B are provided at the same position of the connection terminals56a-56eof the multijoint connection55hof the main body, and theconnection terminal46A,46B at instrument side and55a,55bat main body side are corresponded and connected like the adapter in FIG.11.

Therefore, when the instrument12A,12B is connected to the main body through such atube2A,2B, the same effect as with the adapter can be achieved. In other words, the identification type instrument assembly ICM can be constructed by fitting such an identification type tube to the conventional instrument which isn't multi joint type.

FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing other embodiment of the identification type adapter of the present invention.

Anidentification type adapter3D,3E,3F is used when aninstrument11D,11E,11F is of a multi joint type but doesn't includes the identification signal output means.

Aconnection31D,31E,31F of theadapter3D,3E,3F at tube side is the same as theconnection31A,31B,31C of theadapter3A,3B,3C at tube side and the same kinds of theconnection terminals34a-34gof theconnection33D,33E,33F at instrument side as those of tube side are provided at the same position. Connection terminals Da-Dg of theinstrument11D,11E,11F are the same and any connections are multi joint type.

In this case, theadapter3D,3E,3F is exclusive for theinstrument11D,11E,11F, so that theinstrument11D,11E,11F can be specified by the identification signals output from the identification signal output means6 housed in theadapter3D,3E,3F.

Thus the instrument which is a multi joint type but doesn't correspond to identification signal output type can be made to be an identification signal output corresponding type by inserting theadapter3D,3E,3F. Further, when theadapter3D,3E,3F is capable of detachably connecting to theinstrument11D,11E,11F respectively, only theinstrument11D,11E,11F need be autoclaved and it has no trouble if the identification signal output means6 doesn't have resistance to being autoclaved.

Namely, an identification type instrument assembly IBM can be constructed by fitting the identification type adapter to the conventional multi joint type instrument which doesn't actively transmit identification signals.

Further, theadapter3D,3E,3F may be commonly used and connection terminals which are the same kind and position as those for the multijoint connection51hof the main body may be provided. In such a case, the adapter isn't exclusive for the instrument, but it may be provided with higher process function by the housed identification signal output means, measure the resistance and impedance of the connected instrument, and specify the kind of the instrument by the measured result, so that data of the kind may be output to the main body.

FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram showing other embodiment of the identification type tube of the present invention.

The idea of the identification type adapter inFIG. 15 is diverted to theidentification type tube2C,2D. If thetube2C,2D is used, theinstrument12C,12D which is multi joint type but doesn't correspond to identification signal output can be detachably connected to the multijoint connection55hprovided for the main body so that kind of theinstrument12C,12D can be specified by the identification signal output means6.

Connection46C,46D of thetube2C,2D at instrument side is connected to theinstrument12C,12D by a connection terminal Fc, Fd, Fe respectively. On the other hand, aconnection55c,55dof thetube2C,2D at main body side of thetube2C,2D is multi joint type, aconnection terminal57c,57d,57e, corresponding to the connection terminal Fc, Fd, Fe of theinstrument12C,12D are provided at the same position of the connection terminals56a-56eof the multijoint connection55hof the main body, and the connection terminals at instrument side and at main body side correspond and are connected like the adapter in FIG.15.

Therefore, when theinstrument12C,12D is connected to the main body through such atube2C,2D, the same effect as the adapter can be achieved.

In other words, the identification type instrument assembly ICM can be constructed by fitting such an identification type tube to the conventional multi joint type instrument which doesn't actively transmit identification signals.

Claims (17)

1. An identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment;

wherein said instrument assembly comprises an identification signal output means for actively outputting ID code being serial data, said ID code being self-identification signals prepared in advance for identifying said instrument assembly,

wherein said identification signal output means sends said self-identification signals to said main body when receiving electric power from said main body upon connecting said identification type instrument assembly to said main body; and

wherein said instrument assembly is automatically connected to a drive circuit or a control circuit which is provided in said main body corresponding to the type of said instrument assembly, a water supply circuit, an air supply circuit, or a power supply circuit corresponding to the type of plural kinds of instrument assemblies is selectively driven when said main body decodes said identification signal from said instrument assembly and identifies said instrument assembly.

2. An identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment, comprising:

an instrument and,

an adapter detachably fitted to said instrument for connecting said instrument to said main body, said adapter housing an identification signal output means for actively outputting ID code being serial data, said ID code being self-identification signals prepared in advance,

wherein said identification signal output means sends said self-identification signals to said main body when receiving electric power from said main body upon connecting said identification type instrument assembly to said main body via said adapter; and

wherein said instrument assembly is automatically connected to a drive circuit or a control circuit which is provided in said main body corresponding to the type of said instrument assembly, a water supply circuit, an air supply circuit, or a power supply circuit corresponding to the type of plural kinds of instrument assemblies is selectively driven when said main body decodes said identification signal from said instrument assembly and identifies said instrument assembly.

3. An identification type instrument assembly detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment, comprising;

an instrument and,

a tube detachably fitted to said instrument for connecting said instrument to said main body, said tube housing identification signals outputs means for actively outputting ID code being serial data said ID code being self-identification signals prepared in advance,

wherein said identification signal output means sends said self-identification signals to said main body when receiving electric power from said main body upon connecting said identification type instrument assembly to said main body via said tube, and

wherein said instrument assembly is automatically connected to a drive circuit or a control circuit which is provided in said main body corresponding to the type of said instrument assembly, a water supply circuit, an air supply circuit, or a power supply circuit corresponding to the type of plural kinds of instrument assemblies is selectively driven when said main body decodes said identification signal from said instrument assembly and identifies said instrument assembly.

4. The identification type instrument assembly as set forth in any one of claims1-3, wherein said identification signal output means is comprised as a microcomputer element or a communication integration element.

5. The identification type instrument assembly as set forth in any one of claims1-3, wherein said identification signal output means is provided with nonvolatile storage means and serial data, voltage level signals of which wave height value is varied at a predetermined repetition cycle, or frequency identification signals of which frequency is varied is outputted as said identification signal from said identification signal output means, based on the data stored in said nonvolatile storage means.

6. The identification type instrument assembly as set forth in any one of claims1-3, wherein a connection part for detachably connecting said instrument assembly to said main body is a multi junction connection.

7. The identification type instrument assembly as set forth inclaim 1, wherein said instrument assembly is comprised of an instrument and an adapter detachably fitted to the instrument and is capable of detachably connecting to a tube introduced from said main body via said adapter, said identification signal output means is provided for said adapter, and connection between said adapter and said tube is multi junction connection.

8. The identification type instrument assembly as set forth inclaim 1, wherein said instrument assembly is comprised of an instrument and a tube detachably fitted to the instrument and is capable of detachably connecting to said main body via said tube, said identification signal output means is provided for said tube, and connection between said tube and said main body is multi junction connection.

9. An identification type adapter detachably attached to an instrument assembly, detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment,

wherein said adapter comprises an identification signal output means for actively outputting ID code being serial data, said ID code being self-identification signals prepared in advance for identifying attached instrument assembly,

wherein said identification signal output means sends said self-identification signals to said main body when receiving electric power from said main body upon connecting said adapter to said main body, and

wherein said instrument assembly is automatically connected to a drive circuit or a control circuit which is provided in said main body corresponding to the type of said instrument assembly, a water supply circuit, an air supply circuit, or a power supply circuit corresponding to the type of plural kinds of instrument assemblies is selectively driven when said main body decodes said identification signal from said instrument assembly and identifies said instrument assembly.

10. The identification type adapter as set forth inclaim 9, wherein a connection part for detachably connection said adapter to said main body is multi junction connection.

11. An identification type tube detachably attached to an instrument assembly detachably connected to a main body of a medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment,

wherein said tube comprises identification signal output means for actively outputting ID code being serial data, said ID code being self-identification signals prepared in advance for identifying attached instrument assembly,

wherein said identification signal output means sends said self-identification signals to said main body when receiving electric power from said main body upon connection said tube to said main body, and

wherein said instrument assembly is automatically connected to a drive circuit or a control circuit which is provided in said main body corresponding to the type of said instrument assembly, a water supply circuit, an air supply circuit, or a power supply circuit corresponding to the type of plural kinds of instrument assemblies is selectively driven when said main body decodes said identification signal from said instrument assembly and identifies said instrument assembly.

12. The identification type tube as set forth inclaim 11, wherein a connection part for detachably connecting said tube to said main body is a multi junction connection.

13. A medical apparatus for use in diagnosis and treatment with a main body to which an instrument assembly is detachably connected,

wherein said instrument assembly is comprised as an instrument assembly having an identification signal output means for actively outputting ID code being serial data, said ID code being self-identification signals prepared in advance for identifying attached instrument assembly,

wherein said identification signal output means sends said self-identification signals to said main body when receiving electric power from said main body upon being connected to said main body, and

wherein said instrument assembly is automatically connected to a drive circuit or a control circuit which is provided in said main body corresponding th the type of said instrument assembly, a water supply circuit, an air supply circuit, or a power supply circuit corresponding to the type of plural kinds of instrument assemblies is selectively driven when said main body decodes said identification signal from said instrument assembly and identifies said instrument assembly.

14. The medical apparatus as set forth inclaim 13, wherein when said instrument assembly is specified, display mode of display means and/or input mode of input means such as a touch panel can be automatically switched corresponding to the specified instrument assembly.

15. The medical apparatus as set forth inclaim 13 or14, wherein when said instrument assembly is specified, management of usage history and distinction of using operator of the specified instrument assembly can be executed.

16. The medical apparatus as set forth inclaim 13 or14, wherein said main body is provided with a microcomputer element or an integrated element for communication as identification means of identification signals output from said identification signal output means of the connected instrument assembly.

17. The medical apparatus as set forth inclaim 13 or14, wherein wiring to a connection part detachably connecting said instrument assembly in said main body is a multi-branch structure.

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